Casio AP-450 or Yamaha YDP162?
One of the most common questions we get asked by customers researching their digital piano or keyboard is along the lines of "Which is better, Casio or Yamaha?". I personally have always used Yamaha but if you compare the specifications 'under the bonnet' as it were, Casio are sometimes better on paper. There are a few things to help you choose -
- Casio have standardised their available finishes to Black only. There are no other available finishes for the new Casio Pianos. Yamaha, however, offer 4 for the YDP-162 - Black, Cherry, Rosewood or Polished Ebony.
- The YDP-162 is usually a little pricier than the AP-450. The AP-450 has a few different features (like the lid simulator) but the sound and feel are more realistic on the Yamaha. I personally however prefer the cabinet on the AP-450.
- Yamaha have a better reputation for quality - but - Casio are shaking off the "Watches and Calculators" joke to become a serious consideration.
Final Word -
This one really comes down to aesthetics. These are two very different cabinet styles and it's whichever suits you better. Bearing in mind the Yamaha has a wider range of colours this might also work better with your decor. On a musical note the Yamaha does have a better sound quality and feel to the keyboard, but Casio's lid simulator is very nice - you may look past the Yamaha in order to gain the extra voices/songs and other features of the Casio.